Pembrokeshire County Council has confirmed that it recently received a ‘security-related threat’ - admitting that this it was not an isolated incident, with a number of unrelated threats directed at the Local Authority in recent months.

Following the incident, and in the aftermath of the murder probe surrounding politician Ann Widdecombe, who was killed in her home on July 8, in what police described as a ‘targeted attack’ - staff and county councillors at Pembrokeshire Council were issued a ‘security awareness’ communication, to act as a reminder about vigilance at work and personal safety, in relation to Council duties and when attending Council premises.

The correspondence which came from Pembrokeshire Council’s Assistant Chief Executive, Richard Brown, stated: “I wanted to make you aware that the Council has recently received a security-related threat.

“Although there is no information to suggest any immediate risk to staff or our services, we are treating the matter seriously and are working with the appropriate agencies to ensure that any necessary measures are in place.

“Sadly, this is not an isolated incident. Over recent months, we have seen a number of unrelated threats directed at the Council, and in some cases at individual officers.

Richard Brown
Pembrokeshire Council’s Assistant Chief Executive, Richard Brown, stated: “Sadly, this is not an isolated incident. Over recent months, we have seen a number of unrelated threats directed at the Council, and in some cases at individual officers.” (Stock image)

“While such incidents remain uncommon, they serve as an important reminder that we should all remain aware of our surroundings and follow the security arrangements and procedures that are already in place.

“I want to emphasise that I am sharing this information to raise awareness, not to cause alarm.

“The Council remains a safe place to work, and the actions we are asking colleagues to take are largely the simple, everyday measures that help keep everyone safe.”

The following guidance was issued, with staff and councillors urged to be particularly mindful of the following:

  • Wear your Council identification badge and ensure it is visible at all times when in our buildings.
  • Remain alert to anyone in our buildings who is not displaying identification or whose presence appears unusual.
  • Report any suspicious behaviour, packages or unattended items promptly.
  • Be mindful of building and office security, particularly around controlled access points.
  • Raise any concerns with your line manager or through the appropriate reporting routes.

“The safety and wellbeing of our staff is our highest priority. If anything gives you cause for concern, no matter how minor it may seem, please do not hesitate to report it,” continued Mr Brown.

County hall Pembrokeshire council
Staff and county councillors at Pembrokeshire Council were issued a ‘security awareness’ communication, to act as a reminder about vigilance at work and personal safety, in relation to Council duties and when attending Council premises. (Stock image)

“It is always better to raise a concern that proves to be nothing than to overlook something important.

“Thank you for your continued professionalism, support for one another, and commitment to keeping our workplaces safe and secure,” he added.

A spokesperson for Pembrokeshire Council told the Observer: “Pembrokeshire Council can confirm that a potential security threat was reported and was treated seriously in accordance with established protocols. Appropriate assessments were undertaken and relevant agencies were informed.

“There was no disruption to Council services, and the Council continues to operate as normal. For security reasons, we are unable to comment further on the nature of the report or the measures taken in response.”